PhD Studentship: Investigating White-Etching Layers in High-Performance Aerospace Steels The University of Manchester in United Kingdom

[Annual tax-free stipend of £21,805 for 2026/27 (subject to annual uplift) and tuition fees paid.]

This 3.5-year PhD studentship at The University of Manchester focuses on investigating white-etching layers (WELs) in high-performance aerospace steels. WELs are nano-grained regions formed by severe plastic deformation during machining, and their presence can significantly affect fatigue life and mechanical properties of steel components used in aerospace applications. The project aims to address key knowledge gaps, including reliable identification and characterisation of WELs, understanding their mechanical properties, effects of post-machining processing such as heat treatments, and differences across various aerospace steel grades.

The research will be conducted in collaboration with Rolls-Royce plc and will utilise the advanced electron microscopy facilities at Manchester’s Electron Microscopy Centre and the Henry Royce Institute. The student will join the Metallurgy & Corrosion research community, benefiting from a vibrant academic environment and opportunities for continuous development through university training courses, conference attendance, and meetings with industrial partners.

Supervision will be provided by Dr Ed Pickering and Prof Tim Burnett. Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline. The position is open to Home (UK) applicants, with EU students (settled or pre-settled status) and international students considered on a case-by-case basis. The studentship offers a tax-free stipend of £21,805 for 2026/27 (subject to annual uplift) and covers tuition fees. The start date is October 2026, and early application is advised as the advert may be removed before the deadline.

To apply, use the University of Manchester application portal and contact Dr Ed Pickering at [email protected] for further information. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in materials science, mechanical engineering, and aerospace applications, seeking to advance their expertise in steel microstructure and machining effects.